What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
embezzle
Example
The accountant was caught embezzling funds from the company. [embezzling: present participle]
Example
He was charged with embezzlement after it was discovered that he had stolen money from the charity. [embezzlement: noun]
swindle
Example
The con artist swindled the elderly couple out of their life savings. [swindled: past tense]
Example
She was a victim of a swindle when she purchased a fake painting from an online auction. [swindle: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Swindle is more commonly used than embezzle in everyday language. Swindle is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while embezzle is less common and often associated with white-collar crimes.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between embezzle and swindle?
Embezzle is typically associated with a formal and legal tone, while swindle is more informal and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
